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New Jersey · Fishing
Hampton Township sits in the northwestern corner of New Jersey, in Sussex County, and the fishing here is centered on a handful of accessible lakes rather than moving water.
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Hampton Township sits in the northwestern corner of New Jersey, in Sussex County, and the fishing here is centered on a handful of accessible lakes rather than moving water. Reynolds Lake, Lake Anne, and Paulins Kill Lake are the three main spots you'll find listed for the area, and all three are lake fisheries — so if you're coming expecting trout streams, you'll want to adjust your plans. Paulins Kill Lake is the largest of the group and tends to draw the most attention, while Reynolds Lake appears more than once in local listings, suggesting it sees consistent use. Lake Anne is the quieter option. All three are realistic targets for anglers of most skill levels, since lake fishing from a bank or small boat doesn't require technical expertise to get started. New Jersey fishing licenses are required for anyone 16 and older, and the state's Division of Fish and Wildlife sets season dates and stocking schedules that can shift year to year, so checking the NJDFW site before your trip is worth the five minutes. Pack for variable weather if you're visiting in spring or fall — Sussex County mornings can be cold even when the afternoon warms up.
The main lake fisheries in the area are Reynolds Lake, Lake Anne, and Paulins Kill Lake. All three are listed as lake fishing spots, so expect still-water conditions rather than streams or rivers.
Yes. New Jersey requires a valid fishing license for anyone 16 years of age or older. You can purchase one through the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife website or at licensed retailers before you head out.
Alosa Campsites
~19 min drive
A worthwhile stop near PA.
Paulins Kill Lake
~3 min drive
A worthwhile stop near NJ.
Flatbrook - Flatbrookville Access
~13 min drive
Moderate
Lake Hopatcong - Main Lake Access
~20 min drive
Easy
Reynolds Lake
~4 min drive
A worthwhile stop near NJ.
Paulinskill River - Blairstown Access
~21 min drive
Easy
Reynolds Lake
~4 min drive
A worthwhile stop near NJ.
Lake Anne
~6 min drive
A worthwhile stop near NJ.
Muckshaw Ponds
~7 min drive
A worthwhile stop near NJ.
Lawrence Lake
~7 min drive
A worthwhile stop near NJ.
Lower Crandon Lake
~8 min drive
A worthwhile stop near NJ.
Plymouth Pond
~10 min drive
A worthwhile stop near NJ.
Early morning and the hour or two before sunset are generally the most productive windows for lake fishing, when fish are more actively feeding near the surface or in shallower water. Midday in summer tends to push fish deeper, so adjusting your depth or moving to shadier banks can help.
A medium-action spinning rod in the 6- to 7-foot range handles most situations on these lakes. Bring a mix of soft plastics, spinners, and live bait rigs — nightcrawlers in particular are a reliable all-around option for New Jersey lake fishing. A small tackle box, extra line, and a net round out a practical kit.
Yes, lake fishing from a bank or a small boat is one of the more approachable ways to get into the sport, and none of these lakes require advanced technique to fish effectively. If you're new to fishing, starting with a simple bobber-and-worm setup at Reynolds Lake or Lake Anne is a reasonable entry point.
